Select students from around the world are packing their bags and heading to Walt Disney World Resort for the second annual Future Leaders Forum (www.futureleadersforum.com). In a partnership between The Toro Co., Walt Disney World Resort and The First Tee, this educational program helps attendees strengthen leadership skills, prepare for college and explore the many career disciplines in and outside the game of golf.
During a three-day immersion in the sport, business and science of golf, 50 outstanding students from The First Tee facilities around the world will attend this year’s Future Leaders Forum, November 6-9, and receive practical training to become productive leaders in their classrooms, communities and careers.
“The Future Leaders Forum is a unique learning experience for our participants,” says Joe Louis Barrow, Jr., c.e.o. of The First Tee. “This will give them the opportunity to explore various career opportunities within the golf industry and ultimately plan ahead for their future. We are delighted to partner with The Toro Co. and Walt Disney World Resort to make this program possible for the second year in a row.”
The Future Leaders Forum is being held in conjunction with the Children’s Miracle Network Classic presented by Walmart – the final stop on the 2008 PGA Tour Fall Series. The forum came to life when The Toro Co., Walt Disney World Resort and The First Tee teamed up last year to provide a unique learning experience for 50 students from worldwide Chapters of The First Tee.
At the Future Leaders Forum, students will learn first-hand from industry leaders about career opportunities in tournament operations, golf course management and entertainment – among others. Students will attend sessions hosted by the PGA of America, PGA Tour Operations, and Nicklaus Companies; as well as discover what it takes to run a professional golf event when they shadow tournament staff at the Children’s Miracle Network Classic. For many individuals, the forum not only provides access to their first professional tournament, but also to some of the world’s most renowned golfers and golf industry leaders.
“It’s been extremely rewarding to be a part of this program,” says Mike Hoffman, chairman and c.e.o. of The Toro Co. “We all stand to gain from these young leaders as they develop and achieve their own personal and professional success. Looking ahead, we believe these experiences will help prepare them for many exciting career opportunities. Our hope is one day they will influence the growth of our industry.”
Recognized as a preeminent positive youth development organization, The First Tee operates more than 500 learning facilities and program affiliates in 48 states and four international locations and has introduced the game of golf and its values to more than 2.2 million participants.
The 50 young leaders, from 38 Chapters of The First Tee, were selected through an essay competition and application process. Nominees submitted a 200-word essay about their career aspirations and post-high school plans; a listing of involvement in school and community activities; and a letter of recommendation describing the student’s leadership skills.